(West Chester, PA – October 23, 2026): The Chester County Community Foundation invites the community to attend its 32nd Annual Meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center in West Chester. The evening will celebrate the people and organizations making a lasting difference throughout Chester County through philanthropy, leadership, and community service.
Each year, the Community Foundation presents its Door Opener Award to an individual or individuals who champion legacy philanthropy. This year, the Foundation will honor Donna Ziev CTFA, CISP, AEP® and Douglas L. Kaune, Esq., for their guidance and support of Bob and Phyllis Hollenbach. With Donna and Doug’s help, the Hollenbach’s established the Hollenbach Family Foundation, extending their lifelong commitment to service and creating a lasting legacy of giving back to their community. Their work highlights the important role that trusted professional advisors play in helping individuals turn their philanthropic goals into meaningful, lasting impact.
The evening will also feature the presentation of the fifth annual Emeritus Hon. Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste Visionary Award to Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center. The Foundation recognizes the contributions of Holly Brown, Linda Foster, Gary Green, Beth & Chris Knauer, Chris Lang, Angeline May, Richard May, Tom & Connie McEvoy, Therese Walden Murphy, Marilyn Parsons, Michael & Sara Phelan, Angela Scully, A. Roy Smith, Tony Stancato, and Leslie Telthorster whose work has helped make Uptown! a valued gathering place for the community. Their efforts reflect the understanding that thriving communities need more than economic development. Shared experiences, inspiration, opportunity, and connection are all essential to building a vibrant community.
Established in 2022, the award honors visionaries who inspire and uplift Chester County. Named for Emeritus Honorable Dr. Clifford DeBaptiste, West Chester’s first Black mayor and a pioneering leader in the revitalization of downtown West Chester. The award reflects his lifelong commitment to “uplifting life through service.”
The Community Foundation will also recognize the Rigg Family Foundation and Karen and Bob Rigg for their generosity and commitment to supporting local nonprofits. Through their fund, the Riggs provide generous grants to organizations across the region. Their giving helps strengthen organizations that provide vital programs, services, and opportunities throughout the community.
“We are grateful for the people and organizations who continue to make Chester County a better place to live, work, and grow,” said Kate Wickersham, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “This year’s honorees demonstrate how philanthropy, community leadership, and a shared commitment to helping others can create a lasting impact for generations to come.”
The 32nd Annual Meeting is free and open to the public. The program begins at 5:00 PM, with receptions before and after the event at 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
RSVP: (610) 696-8211 | events@chescocf.org
Details: https://www.chescocf.org/events/32nd-annual-meeting/
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About the Chester County Community Foundation
Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds nearly $145 million in assets, and annually awards $8+ million in grants and scholarships. To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.chescocf.org.
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